In mild cases, snoring is simply an inconvenience to the person and their bed partner. In more severe cases, snoring can actually pose a risk to a person’s health. Across Orange County, thousands of people snore each and every night. Knowing whether your snoring is simply an inconvenience or truly a health issue is an important part to maintaining a healthy life. Newport Beach patients can use this information to decipher whether they are at risk for snoring and determine what might be causing their snoring.

What are the Causes of Snoring?

There are many different causes of snoring. Some people are genetically predisposed to snore because of the anatomy of their mouth, while others snore because of lifestyle choices that they have made. The anatomy of the mouth and nasal congestion are common causes of snoring. When the nasal passageways are blocked, air does not flow freely through the body and snoring can result. A person who is overweight is also more likely to snore, due to the fact that there is extra weight along the neck and throat. This makes it more difficult for air to pass through the nasal passageways. People who drink alcohol prior to going to sleep also are more prone to snoring, as their muscles are relaxed and obstruction can occur.

What are the Symptoms of Snoring?

Many people who snore do not even realize that they are doing it until someone wakes them up and tells them to stop snoring. However, people should look closely to see if they are displaying any of these signs and symptoms prior to being shoved by the person next to them:

Sore throat

Drowsiness

Irregular heartbeat

High blood pressure

Difficult time staying asleep throughout the night

What are the Risk Factors Associated with Snoring?

While snoring is disruptive to both you and your partner’s sleep cycle, it can also have medical implications. People who snore sometimes suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea, which increases a person’s risk of stroke and heart attack. People who are chronic snorers are also at a higher risk of stroke throughout their lifetime and may even be at risk for an early death. Patients who suspect that they might be snoring on a regular basis should evaluate their own personal risk factors and discuss their questions and concerns with a doctor as soon as possible in order to minimize the health risks associated with snoring.

The fact of the matter is nearly 45 percent of adults snore on occasion. Chances are there has been a night or two in your life where you have slept soundly, snoring away in your partner’s ear. Of these adults, only 25 percent are considered habitual snorers. If you are concerned about your snoring and want to address it, you can see an ENT surgeon in order to determine if there are any treatment options that might be right for you. The best first step to take is to consult your physician, discuss your symptoms and learn what options might be available.